Hello all! I am new to theses forums, so please, PLEASE let me know if I need to repost this in a different thread or if this type of post belongs in a different general forum.
Anyway, I am new to Toyota and because my new job requires traveling in the snow on occasion, I need a reliable 4WD. I wanted to look no further than Toyota. I have test driven several 2010 4Runners, and while I like them, I like the idea of a less expensive FJ Cruiser--plus they look a bit more unique. Anyway, I typically don't like buying from a dealership, and have found a few locally on Craigslist--which can be very sketchy however.
I also looked up common issues with 07-08 FJ's and one of the most prevalent issues listed that I've seen listed is transmission shuddering. Now, my previous car, a 2004 Acura TL had this issue and it drove me up the wall--couldn't stand it and the price for a good new tranny was out of the question. Not something I want to go through again.
So I thought I could ask for a few pointers? As a 21 year old college student who works full time, what would you advise when looking at reliability and dependability with this specific Toyota? I know every car is different, but is there something or many things to look for when trying out these vehicles? Also, the FJ's that I'm looking at tend to be around the 100K mile range, so anything to be cautious of there? I would assume a timing belt would need to be replaced if it hasn't already with that high of mileage, but anything else?
I would really appreciate ANY advice about the FJ that you all could send my way, so thank you in advance.
Anyway, I am new to Toyota and because my new job requires traveling in the snow on occasion, I need a reliable 4WD. I wanted to look no further than Toyota. I have test driven several 2010 4Runners, and while I like them, I like the idea of a less expensive FJ Cruiser--plus they look a bit more unique. Anyway, I typically don't like buying from a dealership, and have found a few locally on Craigslist--which can be very sketchy however.
I also looked up common issues with 07-08 FJ's and one of the most prevalent issues listed that I've seen listed is transmission shuddering. Now, my previous car, a 2004 Acura TL had this issue and it drove me up the wall--couldn't stand it and the price for a good new tranny was out of the question. Not something I want to go through again.
So I thought I could ask for a few pointers? As a 21 year old college student who works full time, what would you advise when looking at reliability and dependability with this specific Toyota? I know every car is different, but is there something or many things to look for when trying out these vehicles? Also, the FJ's that I'm looking at tend to be around the 100K mile range, so anything to be cautious of there? I would assume a timing belt would need to be replaced if it hasn't already with that high of mileage, but anything else?
I would really appreciate ANY advice about the FJ that you all could send my way, so thank you in advance.